The journey of our family through the ups and challenges of raising a child with an Austim Spectrum Disorder. This is my journal. I write mostly for my own benefit and release. If someone else out there finds benefit then I am glad to share. For those who know our family personally perhaps this will help you better understand us and appreciate the boy who teaches us all so much more than perhaps we realize.

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Jared came home on day and asked if the school had phoned home. Love that. Ummm.....NO. Please tell me why they would call. Wait.....do I want to know? No. Wait......Yes. Hmmm......can I handle this right now? Rats. Tell me.

My baby had an altercation in gym class. Dodgeball, no less. He loves dodgeball. That's not the issue, though I am sure it contributed. Where was his assistant? Oh yeah. She's not with him in gym class anymore. Hello?!!

So I contacted some fine teachers, and I do mean fine - they are good stuff. Yes. Jared lost assistance in gym class because she was needed with another student. Jared had one really tough class but he's been doing better since and while class is easier for him with help, he's making do and doing well.

Great. That's good news. I'm okay with that. It's our goal that Jared learns to function with minimal supervision. I hate the bumps along the way, but sometimes we have to hit the bumps.

What I objected to was the fact that the school administration did not deem it necessary to notify me of the change. Seriously. None of my business apparently.

I stewed about it over Christmas break and then for a couple of weeks after that. I was mad. I wanted to be heard. I am not, however, one to fly off the handle when it comes to my children. I like to be deliberate with my thoughts laid out and my ducks in a row.

I sent an email outlining my concerns about not being notified of the changes. I expressed my feeling that as a parent I was being snubbed and not a part of the decision making process in regards to the educational welfare of my son.

Long and short of the story....I got a phone call. I got an explanation. I asked some questions. They gave me some answers - some I liked and some I didn't. I expressed my feelings and reiterated my desire to see Jared be more independent, but I wanted notification of changes. I shared my concerns. They mostly kind of allayed those concerns......mostly kind of.

Middle school ain't what our elementary school was. I can't even imagine how high school is going to kick me in the teeth as a parent.

I continue to seek updates on Jared from his teachers. They are happy with his progress. That administration.......I sleep with my eyes open where they are concerned. It's too bad. I'm such a great parent to collaborate with.